GREENHOUSE A SYST FOR MICHIGAN PRODUCERS. Greenhouse production in Michigan generates. FAS 108 October 2015 Major Revision Destroy Old

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1 GREENHOUSE A SYST FOR MICHIGAN PRODUCERS FAS 108 October 2015 Major Revision Destroy Old Greenhouse production in Michigan generates more than $376 million in products (2011 wholesale value) annually. Floriculture requires advanced technology and precise use of pesticides, fertilizers, light, temperature and water to produce bedding and potted plants within a limited area. Like other agricultural enterprises, floriculture involves a number of processes that can potentially affect Michigan s surface and groundwater. Although many improvements have been made to reduce pollution risks, more can be done. GreenhouseuAuSyst was developed to assist greenhouse growers to identify pollution risks and to make any needed improvements to protect water resources. GreenhouseuAuSyst will also help growers become aware of applicable federal, state and local environmental regulations.

2 Greenhouse A Syst Greenhouse System Improvement Action Plan Risk question List high-risk practice(s) from Greenhouse A Syst and medium-risk practices that do not meet MAEAP requirements Required for MAEAP verification? Alternative low-risk practice (include potential sources of technical and financial assistance) Planned completion date Action plan Indicate date when completed 3.09 (example) Pesticide spill clean-up kit not available in pesticide storage area. Yes Acquire pesticide spill clean-up kit for pesticide storage area. Sept (4) Completed Aug. 28, 2016 (continued next page) I understand that this farmstead and cropping system assessment (Greenhouse A Syst) and corresponding Greenhouse System Improvement Action Plan were developed on the basis that I have disclosed, to the best of my knowledge, all information pertaining to my cropping operations. Farmstead address: Street City State Zip Watershed name: Aerial map with greenhouse operation boundaries is attached. Producer s signature Date Greenhouse A Syst conducted by: Name Title Organization Date 2

3 Greenhouse A Syst Greenhouse System Improvement Action Plan (continued) Risk question List high-risk practice(s) from Greenhouse A Syst and medium-risk practices that do not meet MAEAP requirements Required for MAEAP verification? Alternative low-risk practice (include potential sources of technical and financial assistance) Planned completion date Action plan Indicate date when completed (continued next page) For MAEAP verification, contact MAEAP office at the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development:

4 Greenhouse A Syst Greenhouse System Improvement Action Plan (continued) Risk question List high-risk practice(s) from Greenhouse A Syst and medium-risk practices that do not meet MAEAP requirements Required for MAEAP verification? Alternative low-risk practice (include potential sources of technical and financial assistance) Planned completion date Action plan Indicate date when completed MAEAP Verification Action Plan Date Target date for MAEAP verification of Farmstead System Target date for MAEAP verification of Cropping System Target date for MAEAP verification of Livestock System For MAEAP verification, contact MAEAP office at the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development:

5 Greenhouse A Syst Introduction Greenhouse A Syst will help growers develop and implement management plans and site improvements that prevent contamination of groundwater and surface water resources and maintain economic crop production. Plans will be consistent with the identified 2015 Michigan Right to Farm Generally Accepted Agricultural and Management Practices (GAAMPs) and with applicable state, federal and local environmental regulations. Nutrients used in greenhouse production come from chemical fertilizers and naturally occurring sources. All nutrients, whether synthetic or naturally occurring, can become mixed with surface water or groundwater by natural processes such as runoff and leaching. Nitrate contamination of groundwater and phosphorus contamination of surface water can be problems in Michigan. Greenhouse A Syst will assess current nutrient management practices and identify alternative management practices that, when implemented, will reduce nutrient losses to the environment. Virtually all crops produced in Michigan greenhouses may be threatened by serious pest problems disease-producing organisms, insects and weeds. Producers are encouraged to adopt pest management practices that achieve the desired crop quality and yield while minimizing any adverse effects on non-target organisms, humans, and soil and water resources. Greenhouse A Syst will assess current pest management practices and identify alternative management practices that, when implemented, will reduce negative impacts on the environment. The Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program (MAEAP) is a comprehensive, proactive and voluntary agricultural pollution prevention program. It takes a systems approach to assist producers in evaluating their farms for environmental risks. The on-farm risk evaluation uses specific tools for each system. Greenhouse A Syst covers the environmental risks for both the Farmstead and the Cropping Systems. The Michigan Right to Farm Act authorizes the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development to develop and adopt GAAMPs for farms and farm operations in Michigan. These voluntary practices are based on available technology and scientific research to promote sound environmental stewardship. The current Right to Farm GAAMPs are posted on the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Web site: gov/mdard. Producers who complete the Greenhouse A Syst assessment will be able to determine what structural, management practices or record-keeping changes (if any) will be needed for the businesses to be environmentally assured through MAEAP. Once a producer develops and implements a Greenhouse System Improvement Action Plan to address the risks indicated by the assessment, he/she can contract the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) at (517) to request a MAEAP Greenhouse System verification inspection. A MDARD inspector will schedule a site inspection to complete the verification process. P.A. 451, Part 82, ensures the confidentiality of the producer information provided to the MDARD for verification. Any information connected with the development, implementation or verification of a conservation plan or conservation practices is confidential. Owners of a MAEAP-verified Greenhouse System are eligible for various incentives and can enjoy legislated incentives if an agricultural pollution emergency ever occurs at their facilities and MAEAP standards are practiced. For a list of currently available incentives and information on how to get started, contact a local conservation district, MSU Extension or NRCS representative. Greenhouse operations with nursery stock production will also need to complete Nursery A Syst. Section 13 of this document (Outdoor Container Management Practices) is for greenhouse producers who have outdoor production of floricultural crops. What is the Greenhouse Assessment System? Greenhouse A Syst is a series of risk questions that will help assess how effectively a producer s greenhouse management practices protect groundwater and surface water resources. The risk questions are grouped in the following sections: 5

6 Greenhouse A Syst 1 Greenhouse Site/Soil Evaluation 2 Water Well Condition 3 Pesticide Storage and Handling 4 Pesticide Handler and Worker Safety 5 Fertilizer Storage and Handling 6 Petroleum Product Storage and Management 7 Waste Management 8 Septic System Management 9 Nutrient Management Practices 10 Water Management Practices 11 Soil and Water Conservation Practices 12 Pest Management Practices 13 Outdoor Production Container Management 14 Other Environmental Risks at the Greenhouse Operation Each risk question assesses the impact of management practices on groundwater and surface water resources. The risk question answers indicate whether management practices have a low, medium or high risk of water contamination. Producers are generally recommended to adopt the low-risk management practice. Responses to risk questions that address management practices that are regulated by state or federal law indicate illegal practices with black bold print. The numbered footnotes indicate what regulation(s) is violated. Refer to Table 3, page 58. Responses to risk questions that address management practices covered by the GAAMPs indicate a management practice consistent with a specific GAAMP with blue bold italic print. Finally, a blue box indicates the management level(s) required for MAEAP verification. MAEAP management requirements are aligned with state and federal environmental regulations. The GAAMPs and environmentally based horticultural management practices are supported by research. The records and/or evidence that indicate the approved management practices have been implemented on the farm are listed in the far right column. This evidence will provide the basis for awarding environmental assurance through MAEAP. Horticultural advisors (both public and private) can assist growers to make the appropriate management changes to become environmentally assured through MAEAP. How does Greenhouse u A u Syst Work? 1) Select all relevant sections for the greenhouse operation. 2) Answer each risk question by selecting the answer that best describes management practices used in the operation. Indicate the risk level in the column to the right. Skip any questions that do not apply to the Greenhouse System. Note: for MAEAP verification, complete the risk questions with a Greenhouse A Syst trained individual. Locate a MAEAP technician through the county conservation district or MSU Extension office. 3) After completing each section of risk questions, list the practices that present a high risk of contaminating ground water and surface water resources in the Greenhouse System Improvement Action Plan (printed inside the front cover of the bulletin). Also include any medium-risk practices that do not meet MAEAP verification requirements. 4) In the Greenhouse System Improvement Action Plan, list: Management practices or site improvements that are planned for implementation that will reduce the identified risk. Sources of technical and financial assistance. Target dates for accomplishing the changes. Target date for MAEAP Greenhouse System verification. A Few Final Words The key to Greenhouse A Syst is that once environmental risks to groundwater and surface water resources have been identified, the plan is implemented to reduce the risks. Some of the stewardship practices that will reduce risks may cost very little and take very little time to implement. Other practices may involve additional cost and may not be implemented for a few years. It is important, however, to have a plan to follow. Once a plan is developed and changes are implemented to address the risks, the greenhouse is ready for MAEAP Greenhouse System verification. 6

7 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 1.00) Has there ever been a formal Right to Farm complaint against the farm? There has never been a Right to Farm complaint or the concern was not verified or the concern was resolved. Greenhouse Site/Soil Evaluation There was a formal Right to Farm complaint and the concern was not resolved. Producer s verbal indication of complaint history. 1.01) What is the texture of the dominant soil (zero to five feet deep) at the greenhouse site? Very fine-textured soils: clay, clay loam, silty clay loam, sandy clay, sandy clay loam and silty clay. Medium-textured soils: loam, silt loam, sandy loam and silt. Coarse-textured soils: sand, fine sand, very fine sand, loamy very fine sand. 1.02) What is the depth of the topsoil and subsoil (A & B horizons)? Greater then 40 inches. 30 to 40 inches. Less than 30 inches. 1.03) What is the depth to the seasonal high water table? Greater than six feet. Three to six feet. Less than three feet. 1.04) What is the soil organic matter content? Greater than four percent. One to four percent. Less than one percent. 1.05) What is the makeup of the geological materials more than five feet underground? Low-permeability materials: silt, clay, shale, claystone. Highly permeable materials: sand, gravel, fractured rock, karst limestone. 1.06) Is the greenhouse site subject to visible soil erosion? Site does not erode. Slight or occasional erosion, with limited risk to surface water. Significant erosion occurs annually. 4 No significant erosion present at the greenhouse site. 7

8 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 2.01) How old is the well that serves the greenhouse? Less than ten years old. Water Well Condition Ten to 25 years old. More than 25 years old, or age is unknown. 2.02) What kind of well(s) are present? Drilled and grouted. Drilled and not grouted 1 or driven point or water jetted. Large diameter (twelve to 48 inches) dug well, or construction is unknown. 2.03) Is the greenhouse well classified as a private or public water supply? Private: potable water for drinking or domestic or greenhouse purposes for family members only. Public: water for drinking or household/greenhouse purposes to persons other than the owner and family (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public). 2.04) What is the slope from the well to potential contamination sources? Well is upgrade from all contamination sources. Well is at grade from most contamination sources. Well is downgrade or in a depression relative to contamination sources. 2.05) What is the condition of the well casing and cap? Not holes or cracks. Cap tightly secured. Holes or cracks visible. Cap loose or missing. Water can be heard running into well. Exposed well casing bent. 1 Satisfactory well casing and cap present. 2.06) From the well installation record, is there a protective soil layer (confining material) in the soil formation? Continuous clay or shale layer more than ten feet thick. Or, Continuous clay mixture more than 20 feet thick. Clay or shale layer less than ten feet thick. Or, Clay mixture less than 20 feet thick. No protective layer (unconfined aquifer). 2.07) What is the depth of the well casing? More than 100 feet. Or, Minimum of 60 feet with ten feet of clay or 20 feet of clay mixture (confining material.) At least 25 feet, but no confining material. Less than 25 feet, or no casing. 1 8

9 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 2.08) What is the casing height above grade? 12 inches or more. Water Well Condition (continued) From grade level to less than 12 inches. 1 Below grade or in a pit or in a basement ) What is the well pump capacity? 25 gallons per minute or less. Greater than 25 gallons per minute. 2.10) When was the last time the well was inspected by a professional well driller or pump installer? Within the past 10 years. Between 10 and 20 years ago. More than 20 years ago, or don't know when the well was last inspected. 2.11) How is backflow or back siphoning of fertilizer or pesticide mixtures into the watersupply prevented? Anti-backflow device installed, including a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap, and six-inch air gap maintained above level of liquid in sprayer tank. Air gap is twice the diameter of the fill pipe or six inches, whichever is greater. Either an anti-backflow device installed, including an RPZ valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap, or six-inch air gap maintained above level of liquid in sprayer tank. Air gap is twice the diameter of the fill pipe or six inches, whichever is greater. Neither an anti-backflow device installed, nor air gap maintained. 1,3 Anti-backflow device installed, including an RPZ valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap, or air gap present or demonstrated. 2.12) Is there an unused well located on the greenhouse site? No unused well, or abandoned well is properly sealed. - Unused well temporarily abandoned properly: Meets minimum isolation distances. - Is disconnected from any water distribution piping - Has the top of the casing securely capped. Unused, unsealed well at greenhouse site. 1 Unused well(s) properly sealed. 2.13) How often is the drinking water tested for nitrates and bacteria? Drinking water tested yearly. Drinking water tested within the past three years. No water testing done, or more than three years since last test. Water tests for nitrates and coliform bacteria within the past three years. 9

10 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 2.14) What are the water test results? No coliform bacteria or nitrate detected. Water Well Condition (continued) Water contamination detected. Public water well(s) test below health advisory limits. Water contamination detected. Public water well(s) test above health advisory limits. 3 Water tests within health advisory limits for public well. 2.15) Are the greenhouse site or portions of the greenhouse site included in a community wellhead protection area? No. Yes or don't know, and soil characteristics and greenhouse operations pose minimal risks to groundwater. Yes, and soil characteristics and/or greenhouse operations pose significant risks to groundwater. 2.16) If a frost-free yard hydrant is connected to a water system, is the hydrant approved by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ)? MDEQ-approved yard hydrant protects water supply from contaminated water backsiphoned into the hydrant's drain valve. Or, Yard hydrant is not MDEQapproved 1, but an antibackflow valve is installed between the hydrant and the water source. Yard hydrant is not MDEQapproved 1 and there is no anti-backflow valve. 2.17) If the drinking water well serves 25 or more people for 60 consecutive days (Type llb public water supply), has it been tested for arsenic? Drinking water tested on a quarterly basis. Average arsenic level is less than 10 parts per billion (ppb). Drinking water is not tested. 3 10

11 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 2.18) If the groundwater and surface water pumps have a combined capacity to pump more than 70 gallons per minute (gpm) (100,000 gallons per day) for agricultural purposes, has water use been registered and reported to the State of Michigan? Pump capacity is less than 70 gpm (100,000 gallons/day). Or, Register and report annual water use to Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development by April 1. Water Well Condition (continued) Pump capacity is greater than 70 gpm (100,000 gallons per day) and water use is not reported to the State of Michigan. 13 Records indicate compliance with water use reporting. 2.19) Have new or increased large quantity water withdrawals been registered (pumping capacity greater than 70 gallons per minute [gpm] or 100,000 gallons per day for systems established after July 9, 2009)? The Water Withdrawal Assessment Tool (WWAT) was used to determine if a proposed withdrawal or expansion is likely to cause an Adverse Resource Impact, and to register the water withdrawal with MDEQ, prior to beginning the withdrawal. The WWAT and registration site is No, a new water withdrawal exceeding 70 gpm has been established without the use of the WWAT. 13 Producer's verbal indication of compliance with regulation. 11

12 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 2.20) Is a horizontal sock well (HSW) present at the greenhouse? - HSW outlets are clearly identified as not being suitable for human consumption. - HSW is completely separated (no common piping) from any potable water supply system. - HSW meets isolation distance requirements the entire horizontal length of the HSW. - Both ends of the HSW are identified. Water Well Condition (continued) - HSW outlets are clearly identified as not being suitable for human consumption. - HSW is completely separated (no common piping) from any potable water supply system. - HSW meets isolation distance requirements the entire length of the HSW, except for chemigation/ fertigation systems during active use season that have a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ), double check valve assembly or chemigation valve with an internal air gap installed and secondary containment. - Both ends of the HSW are identified. HSW is being used for human consumption, shares common piping with a potable water supply, does not have both ends clearly identified, or does not meet State of Michigan isolation distances, or MAEAP Standard, for its entire horizontal length. 1,3 Low or medium risk criteria are present or demonstrated. 12

13 Pesticide Storage and Handling Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 3.01) How far is the pesticide storage located from any water well (Private wells include irrigation, livestock watering, cooling, etc.)? Type IIb and Type III (Public wells include wells that service the milkhouse, bathrooms, drinking fountains, etc. on greenhouse sites with employees). Use Table 1 in FAS107 for well type identification. For private wells: 150 feet or greater. Or, with secondary containment 50 feet or greater. For public wells (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public): more than 800 feet from the farm well. Or, approved isolation distance deviation for the well. Or, between 75 and 800 feet with approved storage and well protective site features.* For Type IIa public wells, refer to FAS 112S. For private wells: Less than 150 feet without secondary containment, or less than 50 feet with secondary containment. 1 For public wells: (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public): Less than 800 feet from the farm well. 3 Appropriate pesticide storage isolation distance for site characteristics. 3.02) How far is the pesticide storage located from surface water (drains, streams, ponds, catch basins on site, etc.)? 200 feet or greater. Less than 200 feet with appropriate security measures. Less than 200 feet. Appropriate pesticide storage isolation distance from surface water. 3.03) How are pesticides delivered to the greenhouse? Just-in-time delivery provided by dealer or greenhouse employee to mix/load site. Responsible, trained farm employee or family member or dealer transports pesticides to storage. Untrained greenhouse employee or family member transports pesticides. 3.04) Where are pesticides stored? Storage building is locked and separate from all other buildings. Storage is within the headhouse or greenhouse but isolated and locked. Storage is in high-traffic area and unlocked. * See MAEAP water stewardship technician for additional information on criteria for reduced isolation distances. 13

14 Pesticide Storage and Handling (continued) Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 3.05) What design features does the pesticide storage have to contain spills and leaks? Impermeable floor surface does not allow spills to soak into soil. Curb installed on floor to contain leaks and spills or provide individual package containment. Impermeable floor surface without curb. Permeable floor surface (wood, gravel or dirt floor) or impermeable floor with cracks. Spills could contaminate soil. Drain in the floor that directly discharges to surface water. 4 Adequate secondary containment for pesticide storage. 3.06) What type of pesticide storage shelving is used? Metal or plastic shelving, with shelf lips to prevent containers from falling. And, Dry formulations are stored on upper shelves and liquids on lower shelves. Metal or plastic shelves without lips. Or, Wood shelves, covered with epoxy paint or plastic liner. Bare wood shelving without lips. Or, No shelves, pesticides containers are on the floor where they may be damaged. 3.07) What level of security is provided for the pesticide storage? Fenced or locked area, secure from unauthorized access. Storage separate from all other activities. Storage open to activities that could damage containers or spill chemicals. Open access to pesticide storage could result in theft, vandalism, and injury to children, pets or wildlife. 19 Adequate pesticide storage security. 3.08) What signage is posted on the storage facility? A highly visible, weatherproof sign indicates that pesticides are stored there. A "No Smoking" sign is also posted. Pesticide storage sign is posted, but No Smoking sign is not posted. The pesticide storage has no signs. Pesticide storage signage present. 3.09) What kind of spill kit is available at the pesticide storage? A complete spill kit is immediately available. A fire extinguisher approved for chemical fires is easily accessible and usable. Spill kit is immediately available, but no fire extinguisher. A spill kit is not available. 6 A fire extinguisher is not available. Spill kit with fire extinguisher present at pesticlde storage. 14

15 Pesticide Storage and Handling (continued) Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 3.10) What total quantities of pesticides are stored on the greenhouse site? No pesticides stored at any time, or only seasonal use storage. One gallon to ten pounds or more of each pesticide in long-term storage. More than 56 gallons or more than 55 pounds of each pesticide in long-term storage.* 3.11) What quantities of liquid pesticides are stored? No liquids all dry formulations. Some liquid formulations stored. More than 55 gallons of liquid formulations stored.* 3.12) Are pesticides with high leaching potential stored? No pesticides stored, or only pesticides with low leaching potential. Pesticides with low and medium leaching potential stored. Pesticides with high leaching potential stored. 3.13) Have Extremely Hazardous Substances (EHS) been reported to authorities? No EHS stored or used. EHS stored or used on farm have been identified and reported to local and state authorities (if stored at or above threshhold planning quantity). EHS stored or used at the greenhouse have NOT been identified or reported. 18 Records indicate EHS names have been shared with authorities or that EHS are not used at the greenhouse. 3.14) What is the condition of stored pesticide containers? Original containers clearly labeled or containers appropriate for pesticide storage that are properly labeled. No holes, tears or weak seams. Old containers with hard to read labels. Patched containers, metal containers showing signs of rusting. Containers have holes or tears that allow chemical to leak. Some containers have no labels. 17 Stored pesticides in satisfactory condition with labels attached. 3.15) How are pesticide inventory control and disposal of unwanted products managed? Pesticides accurately inventoried. Old product used first. Unusable product disposed of through Clean Sweep program. Some inventory process maintained. Unsure of status of unusable product in storage. No pesticide inventory maintained. Unusable product maintained in storage for indefinite time. * Producers who store certain bulk pesticides in containers that exceed 10 gallons or 100 pounds may be subject to additional regulation. 4 15

16 Pesticide Storage and Handling (continued) Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 3.16) Is there a written emergency plan to deal with spills and other farm emergencies? Up-to-date plan developed and shared with authorities (if required), employees and family members. More than one-year-old plan or an incomplete plan is available. An emergency plan has not been developed. Up-to-date emergency plan. 3.17) Is there a written pesticide drift management plan for applications made at the farmstead? A written drift management plan is utilized that minimizes off-target drift. Pesticide applications follow labeled instructions for target pests, but no drift management plan is utilized. Spraying operations are completed regardless of weather conditions or forecast, and regardless of the potential of off-target drift. 17 A written drift management plan. 3.18) How far is the mixing and loading area from any water well (Private wells include irrigation, livestock watering, cooling, etc.)? Type IIb and Type III (Public wells include wells that service the milkhouse, bathrooms, drinking fountains, etc. on greenhouse sites with employees). Use Table 1 in FAS107 for well type identification. For private wells: feet or greater. Or, with secondary containment 50 feet or greater. For public wells (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public): - More than 800 feet from the greenhouse well. Or, - Approved isolation distance deviation for the well. Or, - Between 75 and 800 feet with approved storage and well and protective site features. For private wells: Less than 150 feet without secondary containment, or less than 50 feet with secondary containment. 1,3 For public wells (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public): Less than 800 feet from the greenhouse well. 3 Appropriate mixing and loading area isolation distance for site characteristics. For Type IIa public wells, refer to Fas 112S. 16

17 Pesticide Storage and Handling (continued) Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 3.19) How far is the mixing and loading area from surface water or catch basins? 200 feet or greater. Less than 200 feet with appropriate security measure. Less than 200 feet, without appropriate security measures. Appropriate mixing and loading area isolation distance from surface water. 3.20) How is the potential reduced for surface and groundwater contamination at the mix/load areas(s)? Mixing and loading pad with curb keeps spills contained. Sumps allow collection and transfer to storage. Mixing and loading on concrete pad without curbs. No mixing and loading pad. Permeable soil. Spills soak into ground. Same location every time. Satisfactory explanation of mixing and loading procedures. 3.21) How is backflow or back siphoning of pesticide mixtures into the water supply prevented? Anti-backflow device installed, including a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap, and six-inch air gap maintained above level of liquid in sprayer tank. Air gap is twice the diameter of the fill pipe or six inches, whichever is greater. Either an anti-backflow device installed, including an RPZ valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap, or six-inch air gap maintained above level of liquid in sprayer tank. Air gap is twice the diameter of the fill pipe or six inches, whichever is greater. Neither an anti-backflow device installed, nor an air gap maintained. 1,6 Anti-backflow device installed, including an RPZ valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap, or air gap present or demonstrated. 3.22) How are tank overflows prevented when filling the sprayer? Sprayer monitored when being filled. Sprayer seldom or never monitored when being filled. Satisfactory explanation of spray tank filling procedures. 3.23) How are pesticides, additives and water quantities measured when loading the sprayer system? Measuring devices labeled and kept in pesticide storage area. Devices rinsed and rinse water put into spray tank. Tank capacities labeled. A variety of unlabeled measuring devices used. Devices may be used for other purposes. Tank capacities not identified. Set of dedicated measuring devices for pesticides. Spray tank capacities labeled. 17

18 Pesticide Storage and Handling (continued) Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 3.24) How are pesticide products transferred from their containers to the sprayer tank? Closed system for all liquid and dry product transfers. All liquid and dry products hand-poured. Mixing/storage tank opening easy to reach. All liquid and dry products hand-poured. Mixing/storage tank opening hard to reach. 3.25) What is done with excess spray mixture? Spray mixture applied to labeled site at or below labeled rate of application. Spray mixture dumped in greenhouse or in nearby area or pond. 4,6 Satisfactory explanation of procedures for excess spray mixtures. 3.26) How is the sprayer system rinsed? Sprayer system rinsed on pad or in field. Rinse water applied to labeled site at or below labeled rate of application. Sprayer rinsed out at greenhouse. Rinse water dumped in greenhouse or in nearby area or pond. 4,6 Satisfactory explanation of procedures for rinsing sprayer system. 3.27) How is the exterior of the sprayer cleaned? Sprayer washed on pad. Wash water collected and applied to labeled crop. Sprayer washed at greenhouse site. Rinse water dumped in greenhouse or in nearby area or pond. 4,6 3.28) How are empty pesticide containers rinsed and disposed? Containers are triple rinsed or power rinsed, punctured and returned to dealer, or disposed of in a licensed landfill. Bags are returned to dealer or taken to licensed landfill. Properly rinsed containers can be disposed in a dumpster that is taken to a licensed landfill. Disposal of empty containers and bags on the farm property. 8 Disposal of partially filled containers. Burning of containers on the greenhouse site. 5,8 Rinsed jugs stockpiled for recycling or landfilling. No unrinsed jugs at greenhouse. 3.29) What type of pesticide containers are purchased? Where available, all pesticide products are purchased in recyclable or returnable containers to reduce the number of empty containers that require disposal. Some pesticide products are purchased in recyclable or returnable containers. Most pesticides are purchased in containers that require special handling or treatment before disposal. 18

19 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 4.01) How are pesticide handlers/workers trained on pesticide use and handling? All handlers/workers are certified pesticide applicators or have had Worker Protection Standard (WPS) training. Pesticide Handler and Worker Safety Handlers/workers are not certified pesticide applicators and have not had WPS training. 21 Evidence of pesticide applicator certification or WPS training. 4.02) How are handlers/ workers informed of risks associated with pesticide applications? Central notification of pesticide applications is provided. Display includes EPA-approved safety poster, emergency medical information and pesticide application information. Central notification provided, although not all posting requirements are met. 19 No central notification provided ) What supplies are provided to handlers/ workers for pesticide decontamination? Clean water, soap, disposable towels and clean coveralls (handlers) are available for all handlers/workers within 1/4 mile of worksite. A decontamination site is provided, although not all Worker Protection Standard requirements are met. 19 A decontamination site is not available ) How are workers notified of pesticide applications? Oral and/or posted warnings about pesticide application provided. No notice about pesticide application provided ) Who provides and maintains personal protective equipment (PPE) and trains handlers in its use? All label-required PPE provided and maintained by employer. Training on use of PPE provided. Worker Protection Standard requirements for PPE partially met. 19 PPE not provided

20 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 5.01) How far is the fertilizer or sulfuric acid storage located from any water well (Private wells include irrigation, livestock watering, cooling, etc.)? Type IIb and Type III (Public wells include wells that service the milkhouse, bathrooms, drinking fountains, etc. on the greenhouse site with employees) Use Table 1 in FAS107 for well type identification. For private wells: feet or greater. Or, - With secondary containment: 50 feet or greater. Or, For public wells (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public): - More than 800 feet from the greenhouse well. Or, - Approved isolation distance deviation for the well. Or, - Between 75 and 800 feet with approved storage and well and protective site features.* For Type IIa public wells, refer to FAS 112S. Fertilizer Storage and Handling For private wells: Less than 150 feet without secondary containment, or less than 50 feet with secondary containment. 1 For public wells: (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public): Less than 800 feet from the farm well. 3 Appropriate fertilizer storage isolation distance for site characteristics. 5.02) How far is the fertilizer storage located from surface water (drains, streams, ponds, catch basins on farmstead, etc.)? 200 feet or greater. Less than 200 feet with appropriate security measures. Less than 200 feet. Appropriate fertilizer storage isolation distance from surface water. * See MAEAP water stewardship technician for additional information on criteria for reduced isolation distances. 20

21 Fertilizer Storage and Handling (continued) Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 5.03) Is the fertilizer storage facility (both liquid and dry) identified with a sign? Storage facility labeled Fertilizer, or the fertilizer containers labeled with fertilizer analysis. No sign. Note: Bulk liquid fertilizer storages installed after August 13, 2008, having a capacity greater than 2,500 gallons, or having combined capacity of all tanks greater than 7,500 gallons, must be located 200 feet or more from surface water. 5.04) What level of security is provided for the fertilizer storage? Fertilizer storage areas, valves, and containers are secured when not in use. Appropriate conditions are partially met. Fertilizer storage facilities are not locked or secured by any means. Open access to theft, vandalism and children exists. Adequate fertilizer storage security. 5.05) Is fertilizer stored in the direct presence of fuel products? No. Fertilizer is not stored in the direct presence of fuel products. Yes. Fertilizers and fuel products are stored together posing an increased potential for explosions and significant disposal problems. 5.06) How often is the fertilizer storage area inspected for safety concerns? At least annually. No regular inspections of the storage facility. Evidence fertilizer storage is inspected at least annually. 5.07) Is there a written emergency plan to deal with fertilizer spills, discharges and other emergencies? Up-to-date plan developed and shared with authorities (if required), employees and family members. More than one-year-old plan or an incomplete plan is available. An emergency plan has not been developed. Up-to-date emergency plan. 21

22 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 5.08) Is there secondary containment for liquid fertilizer stored on the farm? All liquid fertilizer is stored with secondary containment. Fertilizer Storage and Handling (continued) Containers with greater than 2,500-gallon capacity or all containers located at a single site with a combined total capacity of greater than 7,500 gallons have secondary containment. Containers with greater than 2,500-gallon capacity or all containers located at a single site with a combined total capacity of greater than 7,500 gallons do not have secondary containment. 18 Satisfactory liquid fertilizer secondary storage containers, if required. 5.09) What kind of structure is used for dry fertilizer storage? A structure or device capable of preventing contact with irrigation, precipitation and/or surface water. Storage allows fertilizer contact with precipitation and/ or surface water. Satisfactory dry fertilizer storage facilities. 5.10) What is the condition of storage tanks, hoses, valves, injectors and fittings used for liquid fertilizer? Tanks, hoses, fittings and valves are in good condition, well maintained and compatible with the fertilizer being stored. Tanks, hoses, fittings and valves have some rust or signs of wear. Tanks were previously used for underground petroleum storage and are in good condition and in secondary containment. Rusty, aged, worn, damaged or leaking storage tanks, hoses, fittings or valves directly discharging to surface waters, 4 or use of underground petroleum tanks without secondary containment. Satisfactory condition of liquid fertilizer storage system. 5.11) How is backflow or back siphoning of fertilizer mixtures into the water supply prevented? Anti-backflow device installed, including a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap, and six-inch air gap maintained above level of liquid in sprayer tank. Air gap is twice the diameter of the fill pipe, or six inches, whichever is greater. Either an anti-backflow device installed, including an RPZ valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap, or six-inch air gap maintained above level of liquid in sprayer tank. Air gap is twice the diameter of the fill pipe, or six inches, whichever is greater. Neither an anti-backflow device installed, nor an air gap maintained. 1,4 Anti-backflow device, including an RPZ valve, double check valve assembly, or chemigation valve with an internal air gap present. Records of at least annual testing. 22

23 Fertilizer Storage and Handling (continued) Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence 5.12) What is done with excess fertilizer solutions at the end of the greenhouse season? Fertilizer solutions applied to crop at or below agronomic rate. Or, Excess fertilizer concentrates returned to dealer. Excess fertilizer stored until next year. Excess fertilizer solutions applied to crop without agronomic considerations. Fertilizer solution dumped on the greenhouse site or in nearby field or pond. 4,6 5.13) How far is the mixing and loading area from the water well (Private wells include irrigation, livestock watering, cooling, etc.)? Type IIb and Type III (Public wells include wells that service the milkhouse, bathrooms, drinking fountains, etc., on the greenhouse site with employees). For private wells: 150 feet or greater. Or, with secondary containment 50 feet or greater. For public wells (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public): more than 800 feet from the greenhouse well. OR, Approved isolation distance deviation for the well. OR, Between 75 and 800 feet with approved storage and well and protective site features.* For private wells: less than 150 feet without secondary containment, or less than 50 feet with secondary containment. 1 For public wells (greenhouse with employees or that is open to the public): less than 800 feet from the greenhouse well. 3 Appropriate mixing and loading area isolation distance for site characteristics. Use Table 1 in FAS107 for well type identification. For Type IIa public wells, refer to FAS 112S. 5.14) How far is the mixing and loading area from surface water? 200 feet or greater. Less than 200 feet with appropriate security measures. Less than 200 feet, without appropriate security measures. Appropriate mixing and loading area isolation distance from surface water. * See MAEAP water stewardship technician for additional information on criteria for reduced isolation distances. 23

24 Petroleum Product Storage and Management This section is designed to help meet environmental concerns related to petroleum storage; it is not intended to represent all of the legal requirements for storage and handling of petroleum products on the farm. Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence All petroleum storage facilities 6.01) Are fuel storage tanks designed for the way they're being used and compatible with the material stored? Each tank designed for the way it is being used and compatible with the material stored. Belowground tank being used for aboveground petroleum storage, aboveground tank being used for underground petroleum storage or tank does not meet specifications for usage. 15 Fuel tanks used appropriately. 6.02) Are fuel storage piping, secondary containment and related equipment designed for the way they're being used and compatible with the material stored? Fuel storage piping and equipment designed for the way they are being used and compatible with the material stored. Fuel storage piping or equipment not designed for the way it is being used. Belowground piping on all underground tanks or aboveground tanks of greater than 1,100 gallon capacity, not corrosion protected. 15 Fuel storage equipment appropriate for use. 6.03) Are fuel tanks monitored for leaks and are leaks repaired? Owner and operator ensure that releases do not occur. Tank and piping not monitored and repaired on aboveground tanks equal to or less than 1,100 gallons capacity. Tank and piping not monitored and repaired on all tanks greater than 1,100 gallons capacity. 15 No fuel leaks present. 24

25 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence All petroleum storage facilities (continued) Petroleum Product Storage and Management (continued) 6.04) What design features does the fueling station have to prevent spills from entering the groundwater, surface water or subsurface soils? Impermeable and compatible surface for fuel transfer such as concrete without cracks. Compatible surface for fuel transfer such as asphalt for diesel fuel, sealed asphalt for gasoline, steel or other compatible liner material. Incompatible surface such as unsealed asphalt surface, for gasoline. 15 Impermeable or compatible surface present for fuel transfer. 6.05) Is the fill opening separate from the vent opening? Yes. No

26 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence All petroleum storage facilities (continued) Petroleum Product Storage and Management (continued) 6.06) How far is the fuel storage from any water well (Private wells include irrigation, livestock watering, cooling, etc.)? Type IIb and Type III (Public wells include wells that service the milkhouse, bathrooms, drinking fountains, etc., on the greenhouse site with employees.) Use Table 1 in FAS107 for well type identification. For private wells: - 50 feet or greater for tanks less than 1,100 galloncapacity with no secondary containment, OR, feet or greater for tanks greater than 1,100 gallon capacity or more with no secondary containment, OR, - 50 feet or greater for tanks greater than 1,100 gallon capacity or more with secondary containment. For Type III or Type IIb public wells: - More than 800 feet from the farm well, OR - Approved isolation distance deviation for the well, OR - No less than 75 feet for a Type IIB or III well if secondary containment, and site and well protective features are present.* For private wells: Less than 50 feet for most storage tanks. Less than 300 feet for tanks greater than 1,100 gallon capacity without secondary containment. 15 For public wells (dairy farms or farms with employees): Less than 800 feet from the farm well without an approved deviation, protection features or secondary containment. 3 Appropriate fuel storage isolation distance from water well. For Type IIa public wells, refer to FAS 112S. * See MAEAP Water stewardship technician for additional information on criteria for reduced isolation distances. 26

27 Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence All petroleum storage facilities (continued) Petroleum Product Storage and Management (continued) 6.07) Does the tank have secondary containment? Double-walled tank with continuous space between the two walls, tank in concrete vault or tank in diked area. No secondary containment for tanks equal to or less than 1,100 gallons capacity. No secondary containment when combined aboveground storage capacity is 2,500 gallons (55-gallon containers or larger) or an individual aboveground tank is greater than 1,100 gallons ) If a combined aboveground petroleum storage capacity of greater than 2,500 gallons (counting 55-gallon containers and greater) is present and could reasonably discharge into navigable waters of the United States, has a spill prevention control and counter-measure (SPCC) plan been developed? Plan developed and copy present at farm facility. No plan ) What is the maximum fuel storage capacity (in aggregate) on the farm? 48,000 gallons or less of gasoline or 80,000 gallons or less of diesel, in UL 142 singleor double-walled tanks. Greater than 48,000 gallons of gasoline, or 80,000 gallons of diesel, in UL 142 single- or doublewalled tanks. 15 Motor vehicle fuel storage tanks with capacity equal to or less than 1,100 gallons 6.10) Does each tank's fill opening have a lockable closure? Fill pipe equipped with lockable closure. No lockable closure on fill pipe

28 Petroleum Product Storage and Management (continued) Risk question Low risk 3 Medium risk 2 High risk 1 Your Records or evidence Motor vehicle fuel storage tanks with capacity equal to or less than 1,100 gallons (continued) 6.11) How far is the tank from a storm drain, surface water or designated wetland? Tank is more than 50 feet away or has some other engineering control present that would control or divert a spill from reaching a storm drain, surface water or designated wetland. Tank 50 feet or less. 15 Appropriate fuel storage isolation distance from surface water. 6.12) For tanks <1,100 gallons, how far is the (non-fire protected) tank from buildings and property lines? - More than 40 feet from a building or a structure. - Located inside a building feet or less from a building, or a structure ) How many tanks (equal to or less than 1,100 gallons) are at each site at one facility? Three or fewer. More than three. 6.14) How far apart are the fueling sites at the facility? 100 feet or greater. Less than 100 feet. 6.15) Are the portable fueling tank and transfer system adequate to reduce risk of environmental contamination? UL-approved tank and adequate fueling system. Adequate portable fueling system that reduces risks. Inadequate portable fueling system that poses risk of environmental contamination. Adequate portable fueling system. 28